Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has been nominated for the Ballon d'Or Goalkeeper of the Year award. The 40-year-old shot-stopper became one of the standout stars of the 2026 World Cup, reports infohub.kz.
The award organizers have announced the list of nominees. Alongside Vozinha, the Yashin Trophy contenders include Yassine Bounou (Al-Hilal), Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid), Joan García (Barcelona), Gregor Kobel (Borussia Dortmund), Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa/Chelsea), Édouard Mendy (Al-Ahli), David Raya (Arsenal), Matvey Safonov (Paris Saint-Germain), and Unai Simón (Athletic Club).
During the voting period, Vozinha made 30 appearances, conceded 35 goals, and kept 13 clean sheets. Over the season, he played for Portuguese club Chaves before moving to Chile's Colo-Colo after the World Cup.
Vozinha was one of the heroes of the 2026 World Cup. In their World Cup debut, Cape Verde sensationally held Spain to a 0-0 draw, with Vozinha making seven saves and being named Man of the Match. At the time, the goalkeeper was already 40 years old.
Cape Verde eventually advanced to the knockout stage. In the Round of 32, the team gave Argentina a tough fight, losing only in extra time, 2-3. Vozinha was again a key figure, making eight saves. Following the tournament, fans included him in the World Cup All-Star Team.
The goalkeeper's full name is Josimar José Évora Dias. Before the 2026 World Cup, he spent most of his career away from Europe's top leagues, but his performances at the global showpiece brought him international recognition.
The winner of the Goalkeeper of the Year award will be announced at the Ballon d'Or ceremony, which will take place on October 26 in London. In 2025, the award went to Italy's Gianluigi Donnarumma.